Contractor Inspector

Avista; Spokane (WA); On-site; USD 88,000 - 141,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k) match

Paid time off

Life and disability insurance

Tuition assistance

Community giving programs

Job summary

Avista is seeking an experienced professional to oversee quality control of contract construction work and to inspect field operations. The role requires regular travel to job sites to verify conformance with specifications and to coordinate schedules across multiple teams.

Strong knowledge of Avista standards, maps, and codes is essential, as is the ability to administer contracts, manage projects, and communicate issues with the Project Manager. A valid driver’s license is required.

Qualifications

• 3+ years inspection experience in construction or 5+ years electric utility field operations.
• Knowledge of electric line construction maps and drawings.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for field inspections of contract construction work including Avista contractors and others.
• Assist contractors in planning and coordinating their work; perform pre-construction feasibility checks.

Skills

Inspection expertise

Contract management

Project coordination

Field inspections

Microsoft Office

Driver's license

Codes & regulations

Tools

MS Office

Work management software

Job description

Job Description To ensure quality contract construction work based on Company specifications. Directs performance of contract work, monitors construction, and coordinates work schedules to meet Company requirements and standards. Duties will include reviewing performed unit work and unit sheets for accuracy, completing weekly audits of contractor civil crew work and distribution line construction work.

Closes: September 29, 2026

Job Description To ensure quality contract construction work based on Company specifications. Directs performance of contract work, monitors construction, and coordinates work schedules to meet Company requirements and standards. Duties will include reviewing performed unit work and unit sheets for accuracy, completing weekly audits of contractor civil crew work and distribution line construction work.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for field inspections of contract construction work which includes Avista contractors, customer contractors and other municipalities. Is a subject matter expert on Avista standards, construction feasibility, and specifications.
• May assist contractors in planning and coordinating their work, makes field inspections of jobs prior to construction to check feasibility of construction. May provide technical support to Customer Project Coordinators.
• Required to drive to construction sites on a regular basis to complete job inspections at the completion of work to ensure accuracy of specification requirements, requires work to be redone when not in conformance with specifications, scope, statement of work, and craftmanship expectations. Reports major infractions or technical problems to the Project Manager with recommendations for corrective action.
• Assists contractors with the proper accounting of materials, inspects for proper storage, returning of materials, and may assist with assuring correct quantities against project material list. Supports contractors in getting correct material quantities, or additional materials not included in project materials list.
• Verifies or modifies construction prints on the job and makes necessary changes in materials or methods to expedite the job at hand. Coordinates or adjusts maps and plans at completion of job, indicating all changes, additions and deletions to original plans. Approves field changes as necessary.
• Prepares various Company reports related to each job and keeps Project Manager informed of status of each job. Maintains adequate records of work performed.
• Supports the coordination of line shutdowns and outages with contractors, System Operations and Distribution Operations.
• Reviews invoices for labor and materials for accuracy.
• Supports contractors in coordinating the scheduling of contracted work, aligning the needs of multiple departments and divisions to optimize outcomes and ensure maximum benefit to the company.
• Reviews work to ensure it is constructed in accordance with Avista standards and safe operating practices. May inspect work locations for conformance of 811 locate laws and permitting requirements.
• May contact, advise or coordinate with customers, Home Owners Associations (HOAs), private utility reps, building managers, consulting engineers, dealers and contractors regarding project schedule, benefits, and impacts.

Requirements

• Three plus (3+) years of inspection experience in construction required; or five plus (5+) years working in electric utility field operations, construction practices and standards required.
• Demonstrated knowledge of electric line construction maps and drawings, basic electricity, line safety, right-of-way and accounting procedures.
• Ability to effectively administer contracts, estimate, and manage projects required.
• Working knowledge of state, national and federal codes and regulations.
• Proficient computer skills including applications for work management and financial systems, as well as Microsoft Office Suite.
• Knowledge of customer service principles and practices.
• Valid driver’s license required.

Other Combinations Of Education And Experience May Be Considered.

Hiring Range: $88,336 to $114,838

This position requires an in-person presence to support team and on-site responsibilities.

Total Rewards

At Avista, our employees are the foundation of our success. Their dedication drives the value we deliver to our customers and communities. That's why we prioritize the physical, mental, and financial well-being of our team members and their families.

We offer a comprehensive Total Rewards program designed to support every stage of life and career. Our offerings include:

• Affordable healthcare options including medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Retirement benefits with an enhanced 401(k) match
• Incentive programs rewarding performance and contributions
• Competitive paid time off including holidays, personal days, and vacation
• Life and disability insurance for added peace of mind
• Wellness resources supporting mental and physical health
• Education and development support including tuition assistance
• Community giving programs encouraging employee engagement and impact
• Other optional benefits from Legal insurance, Pet insurance, and more (Eligibility subject to Bargaining Unit affiliation)

To learn more, please visit our benefits website at https://avistabenefits.com/.

We are committed to maintaining a competitive and equitable total rewards package that attracts and retains a diverse, skilled, and engaged workforce.

In compliance with state laws, we provide the full salary range for each position, along with the typical hiring range based on qualifications, experience, and internal equity. The full salary range for this position is $88,336 to $141,339. Questions regarding compliance with this requirement can be directed to [e-mail].

Pre-employment Screening Requirements

Employment is contingent upon the successful completion of a drug test, background check and motor vehicle records review.

Avista's Commitment to Equal Opportunity

Avista is a safe, inclusive workplace for people of all backgrounds, and we are committed to Equal Opportunity Employment. All qualified applicants will be considered regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, marital status, age, sensory, mental or physical disability (unless based upon a bona fide occupational qualification), Veteran status or any other classification protected by nondiscrimination laws.

Please view Equal Employment Opportunity Posters provided by OFCCP here. Prior to the next step in the recruiting process, we welcome you to inform us confidentially if you require any special accommodations to participate fully in our recruitment process. Avista will make reasonable accommodation to assist a qualified person with a disability in the job application, interview process, and to perform the essential functions of the job whenever possible, where undue hardship would not be created for Avista. Please contact us at [e-mail] if you would like assistance.